Jamie Parsons

Multiple myeloma patient

Jamie Parsons, 70, recently moved with his wife to Mercer Island, Washington from Juneau, Alaska where he had worked for many years in the parks and recreation department. Jamie is a former mayor of Juneau and a leader in the Chamber of Commerce there. In 2004, while on a stay in Egypt, he noticed discomfort in his jaw. Back in Alaska, a visit to the dentist led to the discovery of myeloma. At the time of his diagnosis he was told he might only live two years. His first treatment was with Thalidomide but an autologous transplant was soon recommended. He had the transplant on his 65th birthday in 2006. Jamie was offered the opportunity to participate in maintenance therapy with an investigational drug, Carfilzomib. He says it has worked very well for him and he feels great as he remains active including regular visits to the gym and being challenged by his personal trainer.